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Alcohol PolicyBoard of Governors Policy 1.2.130Approved by the Board of Governors on August 23, 2012

I. Purpose

The purpose of the policy is:

to promote a safe and healthy environment for all students, faculty and staff

to minimize the risk of injuries to persons or property

to comply with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, and other applicable legislation

II. Policy

A. General:

The University of Central Missouri recognizes its responsibility to foster a learning environment that minimizes the negative impact of high risk alcohol use on student life and academic success. The university further recognizes that care must be taken to allow alcohol only in settings where it is responsible to do so, and to ensure that policies do not result in an atmosphere in which irresponsible or dangerous alcohol use is likely to result.

The university observes and enforces all applicable laws and regulations governing the sale, purchase, distribution, consumption, and possession of alcoholic beverages, and expects that all members of its community adhere to these laws and regulations both on and off campus. University funds may not be used to purchase alcohol.

The university complies with the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989. Annual distribution of alcohol and drug prevention materials to all students, faculty and staff are accomplished through 1) the faculty guide, 2) the student planner handbook, 3) the staff handbook and 4) the annual institutional and financial information publication. The following information is included:

statement of standards of conduct, clearly prohibiting unlawful possession, use or distribution of drugs and alcohol by students or employees on school property or as part of school activities

statement of adherence to all applicable legal sanctions under local, state and federal law for the unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol

description of drug and alcohol counseling, treatment or rehabilitation programs available to students, faculty and staff

description of health risks associated with use of illicit drugs and alcohol

statement of commitment to impose sanctions on students, faculty and staff in violation of the policy, including a description of those sanctions (such as expulsion, termination and/or referral for prosecution)

B. University Housing:

The possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages is permitted in university-owned housing facilities only where applicable guidelines have been developed and recommended by the respective university housing governing boards, and approved by the president or designee. The guidelines shall clearly specify areas, times and circumstances under which the possession and consumption of alcohol is legal and appropriate and shall fully protect the rights of others.

C. University facilities and grounds:

The possession, consumption or sale of alcoholic beverages is permitted on university property or facilities only where department or office policies and procedures have been approved by the president or designee. Guidelines shall be developed in consultation with all appropriate stakeholders (for example, Public Safety, Meeting and Conference Services, etc.), and shall clearly specify areas, times and circumstances under which the sale, possession and/or consumption of alcohol is legal and appropriate and shall fully protect the rights of others.

III. Procedures

This policy will be implemented at the direction of the president. A three person panel, appointed by the president, shall serve as the review and approval authority for those department policies and procedures referenced in the guidelines. It shall be the responsibility of those departments or offices to ensure that policies are developed in compliance with university procedures and guidelines, and that a copy of the most recent revision of all approved alcohol guidelines be made available for public access in the Office of General Counsel, and for posting on the policy web site.

An alcohol task force or coalition (a multi-disciplinary committee appointed by the president and comprised of various members of the university community) will meet as required or called upon to advise the president and university community on issues related to alcohol education programs, policy implementation and enforcement, community relations, and other topics as may arise related to the university’s alcohol policy and programs.

In compliance with the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, a bi-annual assessment of the university’s alcohol policy and education and prevention programs shall be conducted, and shall make recommendations to the president and vice presidents to enhance these as indicated. University Health Services is responsible for ensuring the report is produced and submitted for the Strategic Leadership Team review through the appropriate vice president, by July 1 of even years.